Nov. 25, 1959 - Aug. 8, 2012
It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, in-law, cousin and friend.
Jon was born and raised in Kimberley, B.C. He graduated from Selkirk Secondary High School and attended the University of Victoria where he received his degree in economics. He was employed by the Royal Bank in Courtney, B.C., where he met his future wife while hiking in the mountains. After a transfer to the Yukon, Jon and Marcia were married in Prescott, Ontario in 1990. In 1994 they relocated to 108 Mile Ranch with son, Connor, and awaited the arrival of daughter, Lauren. Jon became a paramedic and dedicated himself to helping others, supporting his children’s activities and the community.
Jon’s love of the outdoors, nature and travel never waned. He enjoyed biking, hiking, tennis, hockey, and camping with his family.
On a climb in the Rockies with his son Connor, the steep icy slope caused a fall and Jon lost his life doing what he loved to do.
Jon will be loved and missed forever by the love of his life, wife Marcia McMurtrie; son Connor, daughter Lauren, mother Lorna, sister Sherry Waites (Mike, Jordan, Amara), birth mother Carol, and half siblings Kim, Karen, Andy and their families and canine friend Jethro and special friends Pat and Mark Seilis. He is also survived by his father-in-law Michael McMurtrie (Jeannie Brown) in England, his mother-in-law Bridget McMurtrie, brother-in-law Nigel McMurtrie (Carol, Carisa, Bryna), and Paul McMurtrie (Roberta, Stewart, and Moira) and a host of relatives in England, Sweden, Norway, and the U.S.
Jon was predeceased by his father Clarence and several uncles and aunts.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Jon Howard Sortome Memorial Scholarship (c/o 5724 Simon Lake Road, 100 Mile House VOK 2E1), the SPCA or a charity of your choice.
A celebration of Jon’s life for family and friends took place in Kimberley on August 16th.
Bring your memories and stories to share at an informal gathering of friends and family on Sunday, September 23rd any time from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the Red Rock banquet room (downstairs).
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Jon Howard Sortome Memorial Scholarship c/o Mrs. Pat Seilis, 5724 Simon Lake Road, 100 Mile House, BC, V0K 2E1